Wildfires Wreak Havoc on Greek Coast as Thousands Flee
Thousands have been forced to evacuate Greek seaside resorts as ferocious wildfires, driven by fierce 45 mph winds, tear through the countryside. At least six coastal towns received evacuation orders as two major blazes closed main roads, destroyed holiday homes, and put residents in peril. People scrambled to safety along beaches or found shelter in local schools and hotels.
Coast Guard and Air Support Battle Smoke and Flames
The coast guard rushed to smoky shores to help evacuate trapped residents. Water-dropping planes and helicopters battled flames near Lagonisi, just 25 miles southeast of Athens, working against time before nightfall on Monday. Meanwhile, a second raging fire broke out near the resort of Loutraki, 55 miles west of the capital. Authorities evacuated a children’s summer camp and an elderly rehabilitation centre amid growing danger.
Firefighters Struggle Against Wind, Terrain, and Heatwave
Fighting the blazes is no easy task. Strong, unpredictable winds and rugged, mountainous terrain are slowing progress. Fire service spokesman Yiannis Artopios said the situation is constantly shifting, forcing emergency crews to stay flexible and carry out multiple evacuations.
“Conditions are continuously changing, so we must adapt quickly to protect people,” Artopios confirmed.
PM Blames Climate Crisis as Heatwave Warning Hits Athens
Visiting Brussels, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis called the wildfires “extremely difficult,” blaming climate change for their ferocity. Large parts of southern Greece and the Athens region remain on the second-highest wildfire alert as a brutal heatwave—paused briefly over the weekend—is set to return with record temperatures.
The Civil Protection Ministry has sent urgent mobile alerts to residents in affected areas, urging vigilance. Loutraki’s Mayor Giorgos Gionis revealed that municipal staff are helping seniors evacuate but warned communication blackouts due to poor mobile reception complicate rescue efforts.
With firefighters and authorities battling around the clock, the race to contain the devastating wildfires and save lives continues.
